Luke 19:15 And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.
16. Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.
17. And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.
The Man With Ten Talents is someone I’ve always admired. Although I used to view him as an astute businessman, I now believe that he was possibly a teacher. The word “talent” used to mean a weight and unit of currency, but it is ironic that the word also means a natural aptitude or skill. While most other professions are important and indeed more financially lucrative, their end products have the potential to rust, be eaten by moths, or be stolen. In view of eternity, they don’t compare to teaching. We teachers are actively investing our time, skills, and energy into persons–humans with eternal souls.
Of all the parables Jesus spoke, I believe that this one applies to teachers the most. Just think about it. When God equips individuals with a love for learning, and a love for students, He also provides a way for us to develop the talents and skills it takes to handle teaching multiple subjects to a group of rambunctious and creative youngsters all day long. He has given to us the potential of earning those ten talents.
I do not believe that it was easy for the Man With Ten Talents to invest his money, time, skills, and energy to multiply what he had been given. It was probably very hard work. But he was not being lazy like the man who just hid his talent in a napkin. Developing these skills is time-consuming and arduous work. Teaching can be exhausting, and working with children and youth is challenging.
Because teachers work with so many people directly and indirectly (students, parents, school board members, church leadership), we probably have the potential for more conflicts and misunderstandings in our jobs than any other profession. We also have more responsibility. Those children are very important to God and their parents. And we have been given the talents to teach and care for them for many hours every week. Are we being faithful with what God has given to us?
Matthew 6:19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
My heart is with my students. Although I am indeed focused on teaching my subject matter, of greater importance is my students’ safety, understanding, well-being, and ultimately, salvation. Teachers have a great responsibility, and thus great potential to positively impact the students that God and their parents have entrusted to them.
If you have been given this talent, use it faithfully and invest it wisely. It is incredibly hard work, but, “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required,” Luke 12:48a. Are we being faithful with what God has entrusted to us?